From North Philadelphia, cheers

Inquirer political writers

Kia Gregory reports:

At Dowling’s Palace, at Broad and Thompson Streets, shortly after 11 pm, the crowd erupted into cheers when news flashed across the television screen: Barack Obama elected president. They jumped, clapped and screamed “Obama! Obama!” as they ran out into the street, where they were met by blaring car horns from passerby.

“I feel amazing,” said Nicole Dowling, 38, whose family owns the popular venue for jazz, food and spoken word. “You know how your parents talk about Martin Luther King? I feel like we’re in a new phase -- Barack Obama!”

Her husband, Stacey, 40, could only muster a few words: "I feel elated ... satisfied ... fulfilled," and hug his wife.